Arbitrary File Read Vulnerability in Moodle

moodle/moodle Updated 02 Oct 2025

Summary

13/05/2022

Disclosed on

CVE-2014-3542

CVE

Yes i

Fix available

Moderate

Severity

Not published

CVSS Score

CVE-2014-3542: Moodle allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files. Affects moodle/moodle across 5 version ranges.

< 2.3.11 >= 2.4.0, < 2.4.11 >= 2.5.0, < 2.5.7 >= 2.6.0, < 2.6.4 >= 2.7.0, < 2.7.1

Fixed in 5 releases; the minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run. How to fix ↓

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Background

Moodle is an open-source learning management system (LMS) used by educational institutions to create and deliver online courses. It provides a platform for educators to create interactive learning environments and engage with students. Moodle is written in PHP and utilizes a modular architecture that allows for the integration of various plugins and extensions. However, a vulnerability has been discovered in Moodle that allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files on the server.

Vulnerability Detail

The vulnerability exists in the 'mod/lti/service.php' file in Moodle versions 2.3.11 through 2.7.1. It is caused by the lack of proper input validation and handling of XML external entities (XXE). An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted XML request containing an external entity declaration and an entity reference. When the request is processed, the XXE issue allows the attacker to read arbitrary files on the server. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, such as configuration files, user data, and other confidential data stored on the server.

How To Fix

Fixed versions by release line

The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.

< 2.3.11 2.3.11
```
composer require moodle/moodle:2.3.11
```
>= 2.4.0, < 2.4.11 2.4.11
```
composer require moodle/moodle:2.4.11
```
>= 2.5.0, < 2.5.7 2.5.7
```
composer require moodle/moodle:2.5.7
```
>= 2.6.0, < 2.6.4 2.6.4
```
composer require moodle/moodle:2.6.4
```
>= 2.7.0, < 2.7.1 2.7.1
```
composer require moodle/moodle:2.7.1
```

Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →

Workaround

If upgrading to the latest version is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround is to disable the affected functionality or restrict access to the vulnerable file 'mod/lti/service.php'. This can be done by modifying the server configuration or access control rules to block access to the file. However, this is only a temporary solution, and upgrading to the latest version is strongly recommended.

Conclusion

The arbitrary file read vulnerability in Moodle can be exploited by remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. It is crucial to upgrade to the latest version of Moodle (2.3.11, 2.4.11, 2.5.7, 2.6.4, or 2.7.1) to patch the vulnerability and protect against potential attacks. For further support and assistance in vulnerability remediation, you can reach out to DevNack.com.

See every vulnerability recorded for moodle/moodle →